Cincinnati Bengals QB Joe Burrow isn’t just crushing it on the field—like that epic 47-yard touchdown run against the Giants. One of his more surprising habits, and perhaps his secret weapon, is his strict 8 p.m. bedtime. As odd as it may sound for a professional athlete, Burrow swears by his early sleep routine, which has helped him recover from injuries and improve his performance. Let’s dive into the personal reasons behind Burrow’s commitment to this bedtime ritual.
Joe Burrow’s Sleep Routine: The Key To His Success?
Burrow isn’t shy about the role sleep plays in his success. In November 2023, he shared the reasoning behind his early bedtime routine, saying, “You’ve got to get your sleep to recover. If you want to be your best, you’ve got to sleep and let your body recover.” He emphasized that sleep is crucial to maximizing athletic potential, which is why he’s created a strict routine for himself.
His recovery from a calf strain last season, which forced him to miss the first four games, is proof of how vital this routine has been. Burrow credits his quick recovery and improved performance to his sleep strategy. His commitment to rest has not only helped him get back on the field faster but may have played a role in him winning the NFL MVP.
How Does His Routine Work?
Burrow’s sleep schedule is simple but strict. He heads to bed at 8 p.m. every night without fail. His routine includes other factors like healthy eating and ensuring his body gets the recovery time it needs. He admitted that being around other seasoned quarterbacks taught him to take better care of himself. “Just being around guys that do it the right way…all that plays into it,” Burrow said.
He also noted the importance of structure and discipline, traits he learned from watching other elite athletes. Burrow’s former offensive coordinator, Brian Callahan, highlighted his dedication, saying, “He’s incredibly disciplined. There’s a requirement to being a great player, and Joe falls into that.”
Impact On Teammates And Fans
Burrow’s early bedtime routine has caught the attention of teammates and fans alike. Wide receiver Tyler Boyd, a former teammate, revealed that he avoids texting Burrow after 8 p.m., knowing he won’t get a response. “He’s asleep by then,” Boyd said, admiring Burrow’s discipline. Even ex-Bengals wide receiver Cris Collinsworth, during a Sunday Night Football broadcast in 2023, remarked, “Burrow is no night owl,” after the Bengals’ victory over the Bills. Fans have also jumped on the early bedtime bandwagon, with one fan joking after a big game, “Incredible what Joe Burrow did on that drive considering it’s four hours past his bedtime.”
Sleep Equals Performance: The Science Behind Burrow’s Routine
Burrow isn’t just guessing when it comes to the importance of sleep. Research has consistently shown that well-rested athletes perform better. Sleep helps with muscle recovery, mental sharpness, and overall energy levels. By consistently going to bed at 8 p.m., Burrow ensures his body has ample time to rest and recover, which translates to better performance on the field.
Even during interviews, Burrow has said, “The more sleep I get, the better my body feels.” His results speak for themselves, with improved stats and a growing list of achievements in the NFL.
Following In Joe Burrow’s Footsteps
Burrow isn’t the only NFL player who swears by an early bedtime. Puka Nacua, the standout wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams, sticks to a similar routine, going to bed between 9:00 and 9:30 p.m. Like Burrow, Nacua believes his sleep habits contribute to his success on the field. It’s clear that more and more athletes are starting to prioritize rest as part of their training regimen.
Discipline Off The Field: Joe Burrow’s Approach To Health
Aside from sleep, Burrow is equally disciplined in other aspects of his life. He is meticulous about his diet and recovery process, often incorporating massages and acupuncture into his routine to stay in peak condition. Brian Callahan, who worked closely with Burrow, pointed out, “He knows how to take care of himself, whether it’s massages, acupuncture, or whatever else his body needs to be game-ready.”
Burrow’s commitment to self-care has become an essential part of his success story. His discipline off the field ensures he’s always ready to perform when it matters most.
